Binary Syntax (consensus confirmation)

["Kurt D. Zeilenga" <Kurt@OpenLDAP.org>]

The definition of the binary syntax [RFC2252] (not to be confused
with the ;binary transfer option) was discussed during the LDAPbis
session at IETF#52.

RFC 2252 failed to provide an ASN.1 data definition for the
binary syntax.  There are at least two different interpretations:
	a) OCTET STRING constrained to a BER-encoded data
	b) ANY
Implementations of both exist in the wild, they do not
interoperate when ;binary is used.

In summary, the proponents of a) argue that it is more useful
as servers tend to preserve values (but not representations)
while proponents of b) argue that it is more consistent with the
literal reading of RFC 2252.  A poll of the room appeared to
favored a) over b), the chairs were not conformable in declaring
consensus (even rough).

The chair suggested that the specification for the binary syntax
be removed and the reasons why (ambiguous definition) be detailed
in the document's informative appendix detailing changes since
RFC 2252.  A poll of the room indicated strong consensus for this
approach.

Unless there is significant objection voiced from the WG, it shall
be assumed the WG consensus is to implement this approach.

Regards, Kurt